CVE-2016-1708 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
The Chrome Web Store inline-installation implementation in the Extensions subsystem in Google Chrome before 52.0.2743.82 does not properly consider object lifetimes during progress observation, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (use-after-free) or possibly have unspecified other impact via a crafted web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1708 resides within Google Chrome's Extensions subsystem and specifically impacts the Chrome Web Store inline-installation feature. This flaw represents a classic use-after-free vulnerability that emerges from improper object lifetime management during progress observation operations. The issue affects Chrome versions prior to 52.0.2743.82, making it a significant concern for users running outdated browser versions. The vulnerability stems from the Chrome Extensions subsystem's handling of object references when monitoring installation progress, creating a scenario where freed memory objects can be accessed or reused by malicious code. This particular implementation flaw demonstrates poor memory management practices that are commonly categorized under CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions in software implementations. The vulnerability's exploitation potential extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enabling more sophisticated attacks, as the unspecified other impacts could include arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation depending on the attack surface.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious website attempts to manipulate the inline-installation flow through crafted web content. During normal operation, Chrome's Extensions subsystem maintains references to objects that track installation progress and manage the lifecycle of extension installation processes. When these objects are prematurely freed while still being referenced or accessed by the progress observation mechanisms, attackers can manipulate the browser's memory state to trigger the use-after-free condition. This creates an opportunity for remote code execution or system instability, as the freed memory locations may be reallocated for other purposes or accessed in unintended ways. The attack vector leverages the web browser's trust model where legitimate web content can potentially manipulate extension installation flows through JavaScript APIs and DOM interactions. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Scripting and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how browser-based attacks can leverage memory corruption to achieve broader system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-1708 extends significantly beyond the immediate denial of service condition, as it represents a critical security flaw that could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to user systems. The vulnerability's presence in the Extensions subsystem means that any user who visits a malicious website while Chrome is running could potentially be compromised, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently browse untrusted content. The use-after-free condition creates a potential attack surface where malicious actors could craft payloads that specifically target the freed memory locations, potentially leading to code execution with the privileges of the Chrome process. Organizations relying on Chrome for business operations face heightened risk, as this vulnerability could be exploited to install malicious extensions or manipulate existing extensions to perform unauthorized actions. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning given Chrome's widespread adoption and the trust users place in the browser's security model. Users who frequently install extensions or visit websites that interact with the Chrome Web Store are at elevated risk, as the attack requires only a single visit to a malicious site to potentially compromise the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1708 primarily focus on immediate remediation through browser updates, as Google released Chrome version 52.0.2743.82 to address this vulnerability. System administrators should prioritize patching affected Chrome installations across all user devices, particularly in enterprise environments where users may be running outdated browser versions. Additional protective measures include implementing browser security policies that restrict extension installation from untrusted sources and configuring content security policies to limit access to potentially malicious websites. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls and network-based security controls to detect and block exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping browser software updated, as this flaw was resolved through a security patch that properly managed object lifetimes during installation progress observation. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual extension installation patterns or attempts to manipulate the Chrome Extensions API, as these activities could indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of browser configurations and user access controls help minimize the attack surface and reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation through this and similar vulnerabilities.